Hark the herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled"
Joyful, all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With the angelic host proclaim:
"Christ is born in Bethlehem"
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"
Christ by highest heav'n adored
Christ the everlasting Lord!
Late in time behold Him come
Offspring of a Virgin’s womb
Veiled in flesh the Godhead see
Hail the incarnate Deity
Pleased as man with man to dwell
Jesus, our Emmanuel
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"
Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Son of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings
Ris'n with healing in His wings
Mild He lays His glory by
Born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth
Born to give them second birth
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"
Glory! (To Lord)
Glory! (To Jesus)
Glory! To our King
"Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is a powerful and timeless Christmas hymn that has been sung and cherished by believers for centuries. Victory Worship's rendition of this classic song brings a fresh and contemporary sound while maintaining the rich and deep meaning behind the lyrics.
The song begins with the joyful proclamation, "Hark the herald angels sing, 'Glory to the newborn King!'" This line sets the tone for the entire song, as it calls all nations to rise and join in the triumph of the skies. It encourages us to rejoice and celebrate the birth of Jesus, the Savior who brings peace on earth and reconciles us to God.
The inspiration for this song can be traced back to the 18th century and the work of Charles Wesley, a renowned hymn writer. Wesley initially wrote the lyrics for this hymn as a poem titled "Hymn for Christmas Day." However, it was later set to music by Felix Mendelssohn and became the beloved Christmas carol we know today.
One of the remarkable aspects of "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is its deep connection to Scripture. The lyrics are saturated with biblical truths and references that bring to life the story of Jesus' birth and its significance for humanity.
For example, the line "Christ by highest heav'n adored, Christ the everlasting Lord!" reminds us of the exalted position of Jesus as the Son of God, who is worthy of all adoration and praise. This echoes the words of Philippians 2:9-11, which declare that every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
The reference to Jesus being born "Late in time behold Him come, Offspring of a Virgin's womb" points to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 7:14, which foretold the birth of the Messiah through a virgin. The incarnation of God, veiled in flesh, is a profound mystery and a powerful testament to His love for humanity.
The chorus of the song proclaims, "Hail the heav'n-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Son of Righteousness!" These lines allude to Isaiah 9:6, where the prophet foretells the birth of a child who will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Jesus is the embodiment of peace and righteousness, bringing light and life to all who believe in Him.
The final verse of the song declares, "Born to raise the sons of earth, Born to give them second birth." This line beautifully encapsulates the purpose of Jesus' birth. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus offers salvation and the opportunity for every person to be born again, spiritually renewed and reconciled to God. This concept is rooted in John 3:3, where Jesus tells Nicodemus that unless one is born again, they cannot see the kingdom of God.
In conclusion, "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" is a profound and joyous declaration of the birth of Jesus, the Savior of the world. Victory Worship's rendition of this classic hymn brings a fresh and contemporary sound while keeping the original message intact. The lyrics, inspired by Charles Wesley's poetic genius, are deeply rooted in Scripture, reminding us of the profound truths and promises found in God's Word. As we sing this song, may our hearts be filled with awe and gratitude for the gift of Jesus, who came to bring peace, reconcile us to God, and offer us the hope of new birth in Him.
